Tammy Baldwin: “I rise in support of H.R. 970, the Dextromethorphan Distribution Act of 2007. Dextromethorphan, commonly known as DXM or…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 970, the Dextromethorphan Distribution Act of 2007. Dextromethorphan, commonly known as DXM or DEX, is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter cough and cold medications. When used as directed, DEX has proven to be an effective cough suppressant; but sadly, an alarming number of teenagers and young adults are abusing prescription and over-the-counter medications by taking much larger than recommended doses to get high. H.R. 970 attempts to curb the misuse and abuse of DEX by restricting the sale, purchase, trade, and distribution of DEX to registered producers of drugs and devices. The legislation is aimed at preventing would-be drug dealers from purchasing DEX wholesale and selling it over the Internet and on the streets. Today, we renew our commitment to America's young people by passing this legislation. We are also reminding parents and guardians to remain vigilant in the often difficult task of talking with our young people about drug misuse and abuse.”